P.s. to TrappedNerve:

Therapeutic massage doesn't manipulate the spine in any way, so it is unlikely to cause further injury. And it just might negate the need for surgery.

An explanation? Muscles can undergo wee problems in the course of our daily lives (strains and minor bruises we ignore when they happen). These can lead to the formation of what are called trigger points within muscle fibers. Trigger points are dime-sized knots within a single strand of tissue that limit circulation to the muscle; they can be intensely painful at the site, or they can refer pain to another area entirely. For instance, TPs in the muscles that cross the shoulder blade can create nagging pain in the deltoid (shoulder) muscle. A licensed massage therapist certified to perform neuromuscular therapy (NMT) will apply a few seconds of slightly painful pressure on the trigger point, which will relax the muscle, restoring circulation and relieving the pain locally or in its referral site.

Hope this helps.